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How to financially survive your teenager’s matric dance

How to budget for the matric dance.

Matric dance season is drawing near, which can end up being a costly exercise for parents with pressure to spend on expensive dresses and tuxedos, make-up and hair, after-parties and even luxury cars to attend the event. Many parents find themselves torn between wanting to give their teenager a beautiful outfit with all the extras and also not wanting to blow thousands or worse, becoming indebted.

“As a parent you want to give your child the kind of matric send-off that is memorable and one that they deserve,” says Eunice Sibiya, head of Consumer Education at FNB. “They’ve worked hard throughout the year, but the costs of outfits, travel, after-parties and even breakfasts the next morning all add up. It could cost anything from R1500 upwards to R8000*.”

Sibiya stresses that a matric dance can still be special without ruining your bank balance.

“There are a number of measures you can put in place to help ease the financial load of a matric dance, starting with a budget,” says Sibiya.

Every household should have a budget to plan for everyday expenses, so a budget for a special event like a matric dance should be added to this as early as possible.

“A matric dance is not just about the clothes, there are other costs involved such as, hair, make-up, shoes, travel and even photography. Remember to prioritise what is important and what not. Decide how much money will be set aside and, most importantly, stick to your budget,” says Sibiya.

It is also not unreasonable to expect your teenager to contribute financially toward the day by helping with chores around the house or neighbourhood to earn money to contribute.

Involve your teenager in the budgeting and costing process.

“Most teenagers won’t have an idea of how much the event is going to cost their parents. If they are involved you can explain why they can’t have that pair of shoes or latest videogame, as you are saving for the special occasion,” says Sibiya. “This will also help with the bigger picture of financial management and instilling an entrepreneurial spirit in your child.”

Dresses, tuxedos and suits can also be very expensive when bought. Sibiya suggests hiring an outfit, as it is, after all, only for one night.

“There are a number of places you could visit to hire an outfit. Just do some research. You could also choose a less expensive outfit and make it more exciting with accessories,” says Sibiya.

There’s also no need to spend a lot of money on a hair and make-up artist. Either do practice runs before the day, or, find a friend or family member with this special talent to turn her into Cinderella for the night.

“When it comes to travel, you can organise a nice car without having to pay. Ask around, perhaps someone’s dad has a really nice car, and your teenager and friends could travel to the venue together.” says Sibiya. “If that is not possible, explain the additional cost of hiring a car to your child and ask him or her to get a lift with a friend, or just drop them off yourself.”

Once your daughter is done with her dress, and it is not going to be worn again, why don’t you pass on the good deed and donate it a charity such as the Princess Project? This project ensures that hundreds of underprivileged girls across South Africa can attend their dances in beautiful dresses.

The most important thing to remember when it comes to matric dance is to have clean and safe fun.

“It’s the culmination of a twelve-year schooling career, and if your child has worked hard, they deserve to have a memorable night of good fun. It’s important to keep your eye on what’s important and not to get swept up by the hype and competitiveness,” concludes Sibiya.

Costs to consider when planning for a Matric Dance:

A dress or suit – the largest portion of your budget and a wide price range, but it could cost up to R5000.

Accessories – shoes, a clutch bag, jewellery could all add up to around R1250

Beauty – expect to pay around R1000 for hair, nails and make-up

Photography – do you want some professional photos of you and your partner? Expect to pay around R1000

Transportation – how are you getting their and getting home? A shared limo for drop-off, your own car (fuel & parking) or taxi? Budget R500 for this

Tickets – how much will these be? Prices range from about R250 to R1500

Dinner – is this included or will you be heading out afterwards?

After Party – is there a cover charge? Set around R250 aside

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